The lab, created in partnership with the province and Schneider Electric, was unveiled Wednesday.

A smart grid is an intelligent electricity distribution system that uses two-way communication between consumers and the grid so it can better control the supply and demand of energy.

Bob Singh, the Independent Electricity System Operator distinguished research fellow, says the new Schneider Electric Smart Grid Laboratory (SESG Lab) will offer students a place to “test, assess and innovate using different energy technologies.”

With the use of the SESG Lab, faculty, utility engineers and engineering students will be able to develop communication technologies and algorithms that will improve the functions of Ontario’s electricity distribution systems.

Construction for the lab, which is located at 147 Dalhousie St., began in 2013.

“The Schneider Electric Smart Grid Lab provides an ideal opportunity for utilities and entrepreneurs to test new processes and products in a real-world environment,” said Ryerson president Sheldon Levy in a statement.

The lab is sponsored by the Ontario Ministry of Energy and funded in part through the Ontario Smart Grid Fund initiative.